Agent(s) of Dispersal

Dispersal is the movement of organisms from one place to another. It is important for the survival and growth of many species. There are several agents of dispersal that help organisms move from one place to another. The options given in the question are:

a) Air
b) Water
c) Animal

Let us discuss each of these agents of dispersal in detail.

Air:
Air is a very important agent of dispersal for many plants and animals. Wind can carry seeds, fruits, and pollen grains to distant places. For example, dandelion seeds have feathery structures that help them float in the air. Similarly, many trees produce winged fruits that can be carried away by the wind.

Water:
Water is another important agent of dispersal. Many aquatic plants and animals use water to move from one place to another. For example, some plants produce seeds that can float on water. Similarly, fish and other aquatic animals can move from one water body to another through rivers and streams.

Animal:
Animals are perhaps the most important agents of dispersal. Many plants produce fruits and seeds that are eaten by animals. These fruits and seeds pass through the digestive system of animals and are deposited in their droppings. This helps in the dispersal of seeds to new locations. Similarly, some animals like birds and bats are important pollinators for many plants.

All of these:
All the options given in the question are agents of dispersal. Air, water, and animals play a crucial role in the movement of organisms from one place to another. Dispersal helps in the survival and growth of many species by enabling them to colonize new habitats and avoid competition with other organisms.

In conclusion, the correct answer to the question is option 'D', i.e., all of these - air, water, and animals - are agents of dispersal.